My Millennial coworkers find it hard to believe when I mention that Gen Z is reviving this knitwear trend.

      As one of the few Gen Z fashion editors at Who What Wear UK, I prioritize keeping abreast of the shifts within contemporary culture. Whether it’s discovering practical styling tips (like layered tees or tucked boots) or revisiting nostalgic styles (such as the Louis Vuitton Speedy), my generation's take on fashion embodies a sense of ease. Consequently, when an exceptionally simple item appears, it's often overlooked. This was the case for me when the trend of zip-up knitted jackets began to emerge.

      Emerging as a continuation of the quarter-neck zip (another Y2K throwback that has made a strong return), this tailored, full-length jacket features unique ribbing on the cuffs and a trendy funnel neck, subtly capturing my attention on social media. Yet, it took a fashionable colleague to prompt me to reconsider this practical piece. I currently own three: one from Glassworks and two from Arket, and they’ve been essential in my wardrobe all winter. Typically ribbed, slim-fitting yet stretchy with a high neck, they pair perfectly under coats and bulkier jackets.

      With a gorpcore and athletic influence throughout (it closely resembles the Lululemon Define jacket, which went viral), the cozy, soft wool fabric makes it an essential cold-weather item. Thus, the revival of this popular 2000s piece into the current fashion cycle feels utterly logical. However, these zip-ups differ significantly from the oversized, patchwork versions popular during the initial trend, with their slimmer fit making them more relevant than those that dominated the athleisure era five years ago. Reflecting on this, the jacket is reminiscent of one Mark (Andrew Lincoln) wore when he was friend-zoned by Juliet (Keira Knightley) in the British Christmas classic Love Actually, which sees a surge in views this season.

      Although this silhouette evokes nostalgia, another factor driving its recent popularity (gaining a +450% spike this week on Google Trends) relates to layering. As we transition away from the quiet luxury trend, authenticity and self-expression are more prominent than ever. In terms of outfit choices, layering is the simplest method to elevate your knitwear. From skinny jeans tucked into boots and layered tees to dresses over jeans and doubled-up cardigans, these revived styling principles from the ‘00s have established themselves firmly and show no signs of declining in popularity anytime soon.

      Whether worn under a puffer jacket, styled over a basic T-shirt, or complemented with a flowing maxi coat, the fashion-forward individuals on my feed are demonstrating the versatility these jackets offer. If you have one collecting dust in your grandparents' attic, now is the time to retrieve it, as the zip-up knitted jacket trend is set to last. Scroll down to shop the trend.

      Shop the Zip-Up Knitted Jacket Trend:

      - Whistles: Navy Wool Zip Front Rib Cardigan

       This looks great with an all-navy outfit!

      - M&S: Funnel Neck Zip Up Knitted Jacket

       This has made it straight onto my ever-growing shopping list.

      - Monki: Ribbed Knitted Two Way Zip Cardigan

       Available in 11 different colors.

      - House of Sunny: Zip Through Jumper

       The contrasting gold zip adds an elegant touch to this iteration.

      - Sweaty Betty: Knitted Funnel Neck Zip Through

      - M&S: Bouclé Zip Up Collared Knitted Jacket

       The bouclé texture is a lovely detail.

      - Collusion: Knitted Shrunken Funnel Neck Zip Through

      - Reiss: Wool Zip-Through Rib-Knit Cardigan

       I suspect this chic style won't be around for long.

      - Picante: Alpaca Zip Funnel Knit Sweater

       You’ll stay warm all winter in this one, crafted from brushed Alpaca fur.